Born in Barry, Vale of Glamorgan, Wales, the 18-year-old shot stopper joined the Wales South performance centre for girls in 2017, before joining the Elite Football Welsh Academy South three years later.
Coming through the youth ranks at parent club Aston Villa, she signed her first professional contract with the club in March last year on a two-year deal, in doing so becoming the first player to sign with the side via their academy pathway.
Representing her nation of Wales, she has been capped on various occasions for the youth sides, including both at Under-17’s and Under-19’s level, making her debut for the latter in November 2023.
In March the following year, she was called up to the senior Wales squad for the first time, for their UEFA European Championship qualifying matches. After the nation secured their place at Switzerland for last summer’s finals, there was another call to be with the group for their Nations League fixtures in May.
Two months later, after an injury to back-up goalkeeper Poppy Soper, Kelly was called into the Wales squad for the Euros and was named on the bench for their group stage match against England.
Now in her first season as a professional, the young goalkeeper will join up with Leanne Crichton’s side to further her development and compete for a spot between the posts for the remainder of the season.
Speaking after agreeing a deal to sign with the club on loan, Kelly commented: “I am really excited, I have heard some really good things about the club through friends and staff and things like that.
“Just coming in, everyone has been so welcoming, which is what you want when you come into a new environment.
“For me, I just want to try and learn and develop as much as I can, and I feel like Rangers is the perfect place for me to do that.”
Women’s Head Coach Leanne Crichton added: “We’re delighted to bring Soffia to Rangers on loan. She’s a goalkeeper with strong qualities, good presence, and a real hunger to compete at such a young age.
“This move gives us added competition and depth in the goalkeeping department, and we’re confident she’ll continue to grow as a player during her time here.”
Women’s and Girls’ Managing Director Donald Gillies also said: “We’re pleased to add Soffia to the group for the rest of the season.
“This loan signing reflects our continued focus on developing a strong, competitive environment within our Women’s and Girls’ pathway.
“Soffia is a talented young goalkeeper, as shown with her involvement with the Wales national team at just 18 years of age, and we believe this move will provide her with valuable experience while adding depth to our squad for the remainder of the campaign.”
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